I am an avid cyclist and Carolin absolutely nailed it. The only other thing I would mention is to always use high protection sun screen as cyclists we are exposed to the sun.
Another rule: When trying a new hobby, interest, pursuit, etc., start slow and small and don't go overboard right away. Like, don't go from not riding a bike much if at all to doing 3-5 hour rides regularly. That's bound to lead to injuries, health issues, frustration and burnout. Work your way into it and if it take you'll be doing it for years. You're not looking to prove anything or make up for lost time, but to enjoy yourself and get fitter. This applies to bike maintenance and repair too, of course. While it's important to understand how your bike works and be able to do basic maintenance and repair work on it, as you won't always be near a bike shop that's open when something goes wrong, you shouldn't try to learn and do too much of it too fast. Start by learning how to fix a flat, adjust derailleur and brake cable tension (if you have traditional ones, and the corresponding adjustments if not), center brake pads and keep them from rubbing, reattach a chain that's fallen off, clean and lube your chain and parts, replacing a cassette, etc., and work your way up to more difficult tasks (if you so wish) like replacing your cables (or hydraulics and wiring), adjusting play in bearings, truing a wheel, etc. But, even if you never bother with more complex maintenance and repair tasks (and that's fine), everyone should be able to do the ones that come up during rides, or else you're likely to have to get a ride back home. Oh, and, of course, take all the tools and parts you might need for these on your rides, e.g. multitool with chain breaker, tire levers, spare tube or two, patch kit, spare quick links, etc., and lights if you get stuck out after dark.
Completely agree with this. Analysis paralysis and over fiddling are huge problems I have had in the past. I just got a cheap bike off craigslist, got on my nearest trail and rode for maybe an hour and it was AWESOME. I have a habit of overthinking and messing with things. I don't fully understand my bike and that's ok. I am just gonna take it slow and enjoy myself.
Thanks for confirming my approach. Just got a bike since my girlfriend has been bugging me me and I finally gave in. Been loving it but we go on hour long rides typically. We want to build up to being able to ride for 3+ hours without getting hurt. Same with the maintenance stuff.
G'day Carolin, that is a great list! One thing I would add for anyone who is riding on the road is to buy a decent set of front and back lights for you bike. Not just for night - but on a daytime flash during the day. Being seen by (increasingly distracted) drivers on our roads - hundreds of metres out from where you are - is one way to avoid being hit! And if you ride a lot on quiet, country roads, a tail light with an integrated radar to warn you of vehicles approaching behind is another brilliant addition to your bike. Worth the investment!
A couple more: 1. Take a little bit of $ + travel card with you in case you run out of food or maybe need to get public transport if you have a mechanical 2. Don't let your bike sit in the garage wet after a rainy ride, wipe it down, wipe the chain and relube to prevent rust, 3. If you are out and about and need to lay your bike down, do so on the none derailleur side. Also, it's amazing how many people you see with the seat way too low- your knees shouldn't come up round your ears! I like the seat as high as is comfortable to stretch out the legs properly Last one, helmets need to be on properly and tight enough round your chin so it doesn't fall off your head if you crash! Actually this is the last one- Cars might not see you- be careful and assume they can't if you are passing intersections where they pull out. At night have lights!
A properly adjusted helmet should stay on your head without a strap, that is not to say you don't do the strap up, just make sure the helmet fits properly. You should be able to have the helmet on comfortably but if you bend to touch your toes then it stays on your head without straps. Also, if you have an accident and the helmet takes an impact, buy a new one, regardless of if it looks ok, the integrity will be compromised. Finally, helmets only last so long, they should have a date stamped inside. A 10 year old helmet will give zero protection.
Wonderful video! I've been road cycling 12 years, now, and feel you have put together one of the best "wish I knew" lists I've seen. You answered questions many of us are too shy (or proud) to ask and provided valuable guidance to make cycling safe and enjoyable. Brava!
Along with eating on a regular basis drinking water at the same pace or sooner is mandatory. I carry two bottles and always start out with both of them full. You have put together an excellent list, I really enjoy your channel.
One thing about bike fit you (& likely your bike fitter) missed, is crank length. Today's bikes come in a wide range of sizes, but cranks are 170-175 mm still. Shorter riders should have shorter cranks. I just moved from 170mm to 152mm (I'm 5'8") recently and my knee pain after long distance riding disappeared. I suggest this overlooked change, there's a misconception shorter cranks have less torque, while it's true when measured at the bottom bracket, but the rear wheels, through gearing is where the power is transferred, and shorter cranks have no effect on power in the rear wheels. Also I would suggest putting reflective stickers on your wheel rims to be more visible and passive reflection to other light sources (in addition to a front & rear light).
All good pointers, Carolin. When I first started cycling, I had a flat and didn't know how to fix and was an hour away from my car. Luckily, I encountered a LBS owner who changed out my flat and got me going again. When I got home, I started watching TH-cam videos on how to change a flat and now can do it with ease even though it's the last thing I want to be a pro at lol. Also, I just wanted to mention about your repair kit, make sure to carry a tire pump and not just CO pump and cartridge. I've ran into people stranded on the side of the road with CO pump and spent cartridges. All it took was a tire pump to get them going again. It doesn't have to be expensive, just one with the correct valve head.
Great list, I especially like 10. Group rides are a good way for beginners to get information, clothing, tools, routes, and with busy lives making a date can get you out there. Solo rides take more motivation ( at least for me ).
Well done. You certainly hit a half dozen points that I learned the hard way. Your video should help new cyclists avoid some pitfalls. Good public service. Thank you.
Re the eating - not necessary to eat continuously if you’re fat adapted . I routinely do 20-30 mile bike rides early in the day before eating. I’m 71 years old. Keto for the win.
Really great list! I knew about recovering from muscle soreness but had to learn tendon recovery the hard way. Last autumn I bought a hardtail MTB (not new to cycling) and rode it through the winter. I pushed through so much snow on the lowest gear... often in -15°c. My left biceps femoris tendon started to ache on every ride. Though that has mostly recovered, the right side is lightly snapping. Will have it checked soon but for now it isn't happening while riding. Give tendons 3 days of recovery after intense efforts.
Well done on the list! I started competitive cycling when I was about 14 many moons ago ( LONG before the Internet) and just ate up everything I could on how to be better. Your list is pretty much the basics I learned back then. Not much has really changed. But let me make a few comments: 1) Fit. Yes. Bike fit may be the most important item when starting cycling. It leads to a more comfortable ride on top of preventing injury and lessening fatigue. And when you get advanced and know more how your body works, you can tinker with crank arm length and seat positioning. 2) Group rides are super great. Not only is a great social thing to do and learn what others do, but teaches you so many bike handling techniques. Like being comfortable riding within inches side by side with another rider. Or teaching you what lines to take in corners. So many great things. The biggest difference between lower and upper ranked racers IS NOT fitness. It's bike handling technique. Seriously. Well done on your cycling journey. I hope to get back into cycling and revisit the joy of riding and taking little adventures.
I think hearing protection is important too. I recently bought cat ears and they do really block at least 50% of wind noise but you have to have a helmet with more vertical straps to get it working well.
Tires. Need to experiment and try a bunch before you settle on a pair that suits you. Then get extras. Same for tubes. Never hurts to have more than you need at a moment’s notice. Also keep extra valve adapters handy. I have one on keychain.
Also be careful putting tube back in wheel. It’s easy to be rough and fold the tube while putting it back in and then pinch flat. Never hurts to have extra levers.
I've had so many bike issues over my life. Buy one, don't like, trade in for something new... and don't like the new bike. I just want to ride. I'm literally trying to use the bike I have (that I don't like) and fix it up. Ugh. I popped a tire. I just want to ride. But my set-up is so old that I'm replacing the tires, inner tubes and will try and try again just so I can go on a short romp through the neighborhood and look at the trees and flowers for ideas for my yard. I like your advice. Thanks for producing and sharing good advice and honesty.
11. use shorter cranks. This is actually a biggie in bike fit. Most stock bikes are offered with a standard crank length by frame size, and usually too long (tradition) There are two key things to consider: a) power = torque x angular velocity (how fast you can move the pedal over a angle or a full pedal cycle). the torque is the force on the pedal multiplied by the length of the lever arm, in this case the length of the crank. angular velocity is the speed by which the pedal travels along the pedaling circle to complete the angle. for example, if you look at the pedal in the top position, 12 o'clock and at the 9 o'clock position, the pedal has to move 90 degrees, on a large crank length, the feet have to travel a longer distance to complete that angle. on shorter cranks, less. on a long crank length, the torque will be higher, but your feet have to travel faster along the pedaling circle. in short, they cancel eachother out. if torque goes up, angular velocity goes down and vice versa,. because the human body chooses a natural feeling pedal speed. b) hip angle: the length of the cranks determines how high your knee has to move up to complete the pedal circle. and this is quite a big difference. if you compare 165mm cranks with 172.5 cranks, at the top of the pedal position your knee has to be twice the difference in crank length higher, in this example 1.5cm. By choosing shorter cranks you can gain comfort or get the same comfort as longer cranks, but sit deeper and more aero. I am 5'10 and I have been using 165mm cranks for years. Best decision I ever made :) Same power, more comfort.
actually, you will sit higher in a bike with a shorter crank, because you'd need to set the saddle higher to the lower pedal position, and that will be raised with a shorter crank
@@pxldgn7129 Obviously, but the saddle height goes up by the difference in crank length while the diameter of the pedal circle goes down by twice the difference.
Check the weather before your ride so you can layer accordingly. I also recommend reviewing your route ahead of time so you can plan for the hills. Oh, also get a tire bead jack. It will save you a lot of time when installing a tire.
Just today i was talking to an avid cyclist i work woth that i was going to look into getting a bike and your video popped later in the day. Thanks for the good advice
Thanks for the great video! Would you recommend any online resources and/or tips on how to learn to fix a flat? I feel my local bike shop will not be necessarily interested in spending time with me on this.
I would pick a more practical bike. Because why not? There's plenty bikes with roadbike/ gravel geometry but that come with a rack and fenders, sometimes luggage space on the fork too. Using the heavier sturdier bike and the puncture safe tyres and bringing lots of water and so on slows you down but wont make you any less fit.
I’m 54 and would like to get into gravel/ mountain biking. However, I’m unsure of what type to get. I can see myself biking on smooth, gravel and rutted single track trails. Was looking at either salsa rangefinder deore 12 or Canyon grizl7 with suspension… any recommendations??
Hey, thanks for that refreshing advise. Many of us bypass those simple but important things. I think that I will go that way. Thanks again happy cycling.❤
My best advice is listen to Carolin! I've always said the the two most important things are what holds you and your bike to the road; that's your saddle fitting your sit bones and your chamois pad fitting your bits! Rubber side down-
Nice video and useful tips...I'd like to ask you when it is recommended to do stretching? when you finish your ride, before it or just simply every single day to keep fit and feel less soreness???
Small correction..Spare "tube" , not "tire" ...all great tipe though! I recently got a bike fit after complaining about the cost but ill never regret it, helped with back pain (from being hunched over) and knee pain too.
My biggest failure when buying a bike was the right size of road bike. Even the well-known specialist dealer in my region measured me and then sold me a road bike two sizes too big 54 instead of 49. I'm not very tall and couldn't do anything with the first bike. I only realised this during the bike fitting. I would advise everyone to get properly measured beforehand.
Along with frequently eating I would suggest taking more water than you think you will need for the ride. Also be sure to keep a constant intake of electrolytes because your body loses them through sweat 😅. At the end of the day just remember to have fun. Happy trails 👣!
One of the biggest mistakes new cyclist make is they feel they have to ride on the sidewalk (children are an exception). I cannot tell you how many close calls I have seen with new riders almost getting hit by vehicles because the driver's attention is looking for other motorist on the street, NOT looking for bicycles on the walk ways.
When buying a bike, know what your intentions are for it and what you are riding on. A MTB is good for dirt and rugged terrain but is not so great for roads while a road bike is great for roads but I would definitely not use it for gravel and rugged terrain. Also, I wouldn't buy an Enduro for grocery runs when there's cargo bikes or Dutch style but I'm not going to use a cargo bike in a race.
I'm the guy who asks, "Are you okay? Do you need anything?" when I see cyclists on the side of the road. I have stopped and helped folks on my rides. I've repaired flats, minor mechanical issues, given snacks and water to others. Don't be afraid of accepting assistance from some stranger if you are out on a ride and have a problem. Likewise, if you are capable of helping and see someone on the side of the road, unless you are in a big hurry to go somewhere, please offer to help.
I've been riding as adult for about 10 years now and have yet to get a bike fit, for me I don't think I need it, but I would recommend. I would imagine a new rider could learn a lot.
more props to ya! it takes a lot of experimenting and research to get dialed in. Agreed, a new rider would learn a ton. I was a sponge asking all the questions to the bike fitter :D
I suspect you got lucky. I purchased a new bike for bikepacking. Felt OK for say 30 miles but when starting to think about 50-60 miles potentially with another 20-30 lbs on that steel frame I started to get a bit worried. Ended up with a shorter stem, spacers to bring up the bars, changing the angle of the hoods, spacers on my pedals, some adjustment to my SPD cleats to true up my stroke and a longer seat post and a new seat. Still not ideal but at 65 I don’t have the time to experiment (though am going for a smaller chainring after climbing with half my load). Pain probably stops more people from regularly cycling than anything else.
Having a second opinion on bike fit makes a big difference because the other person is looking while you are riding. I remember many years ago riding between Buffalo and Toronto and meeting up with the "old Italian racer" along the ride. At the end of the ride, he suggest I drop my seat a little. After I dropped my seat a 1/2 inch, my peddling cadence picked up and my sore leg muscle became less of problem (i.e. I started riding 200 mile days with no more effort then most people expand on 30-50 miles)
your bike, or that bike in the background, looks nice do you have many reviews on your equipment? this was an interesting video, normally when i go on long mountain bike trips i just take a bike bottle of Ribena, and some granola bars. not done any road biking but interested after seeing all these educational and interesting cycling channels now on utube. its all about getting the time to put in the training, i focus on swimming and rock climbing, plus yoga, not enough biking in the last few years. your channel is a boost of inspiration. thank you for your time to make such informative and interesting videos. if you can make a video purely about diet, nutrition that would be interesting. thank you.
Have two bikes. One will be down with slow flat and it will prevent you from messing up your routine. Ride the same path if you can on normal routine rides. Different route on casual less intense workout long distance rides. Always wear helmet. If I didn't I would have been dead at least half dozen times in the past 30 years or so. I only ride with Brooks leather saddles now. I've had them all. Air, Gel, you name it. They all will fail in no time. Most comfortable Brooks saddle; the B17 and Swift. I have both. Once they are broken in, you will never go back to conventional saddle. Group rides are nice but it will not give you a good workout. Have fun! BTW, I've been a road cyclist for over 45 years. I now only have Litespeed Ultimate and Bike Friday's Pocket Rocket single speed.
I’ve just started cycling so this is really useful for me I’ve also joined a local bike club ( Seacroft wheelers in Leeds U.K) who are so friendly and helpful Just had minor hand surgery ( trigger finger release) so unfortunately no cycling this week How tall are you/ what bike do you have ?
Great list, I would add... 1. Get bike bright lights; front and back 2. Wear at least one bright clothing on you. 3. Ride as if you are going to get run over by drivers. You see them but they dont, remember that. 4. In time, you are going to see and hear horrible bike crashes and even death. At some point in your life, you will stop riding or you will keep going until you die. 5. There are two types of riders; one who fell and one who is going to fall. Bonus 1. Dont apply bengay cream on your lower back before your long ride. Its going to sting. 😂 2. Try triathlon bike short with minimum padding. Get bike seat/saddle cushion.
I'd modify #1: "Get a bike fit BEFORE buying a bike. The fitter can recommend a model that will suit your individual proportions of legs, torso, arms, flexibility, etc. If your heart is set on a particular model, at least the fitter can help you get the right SIZE of that model." and tip #11: "Especially when descending or cornering, look where you want to go and your bike will magically go exactly there. If you look at a hazard like a rock or a tree, you will tend to hit them." tip #12: "Never go at 100% when descending/cornering. Always leave a little head room, limit yourself to say 90% or 95%, and you will relax and do it more smoothly."
As a _long_ time cyclist, I must say you've compiled an *_excellent_* list. Ride safe & have fun.
Appreciate your comment, thank you for watching!
I am an avid cyclist and Carolin absolutely nailed it. The only other thing I would mention is to always use high protection sun screen as cyclists we are exposed to the sun.
Another rule: When trying a new hobby, interest, pursuit, etc., start slow and small and don't go overboard right away. Like, don't go from not riding a bike much if at all to doing 3-5 hour rides regularly. That's bound to lead to injuries, health issues, frustration and burnout. Work your way into it and if it take you'll be doing it for years. You're not looking to prove anything or make up for lost time, but to enjoy yourself and get fitter.
This applies to bike maintenance and repair too, of course. While it's important to understand how your bike works and be able to do basic maintenance and repair work on it, as you won't always be near a bike shop that's open when something goes wrong, you shouldn't try to learn and do too much of it too fast.
Start by learning how to fix a flat, adjust derailleur and brake cable tension (if you have traditional ones, and the corresponding adjustments if not), center brake pads and keep them from rubbing, reattach a chain that's fallen off, clean and lube your chain and parts, replacing a cassette, etc., and work your way up to more difficult tasks (if you so wish) like replacing your cables (or hydraulics and wiring), adjusting play in bearings, truing a wheel, etc.
But, even if you never bother with more complex maintenance and repair tasks (and that's fine), everyone should be able to do the ones that come up during rides, or else you're likely to have to get a ride back home.
Oh, and, of course, take all the tools and parts you might need for these on your rides, e.g. multitool with chain breaker, tire levers, spare tube or two, patch kit, spare quick links, etc., and lights if you get stuck out after dark.
Completely agree with this. Analysis paralysis and over fiddling are huge problems I have had in the past.
I just got a cheap bike off craigslist, got on my nearest trail and rode for maybe an hour and it was AWESOME.
I have a habit of overthinking and messing with things. I don't fully understand my bike and that's ok. I am just gonna take it slow and enjoy myself.
This looks like great advice
Thanks for confirming my approach. Just got a bike since my girlfriend has been bugging me me and I finally gave in. Been loving it but we go on hour long rides typically. We want to build up to being able to ride for 3+ hours without getting hurt. Same with the maintenance stuff.
I'm 65 years old and have recently taken up bike riding, I've a lot to learn but sites like this is just what I need, thanks
Me too!!
Me three! I’m 62 BTW. Glad I’m not the only one…
G'day Carolin, that is a great list! One thing I would add for anyone who is riding on the road is to buy a decent set of front and back lights for you bike. Not just for night - but on a daytime flash during the day. Being seen by (increasingly distracted) drivers on our roads - hundreds of metres out from where you are - is one way to avoid being hit!
And if you ride a lot on quiet, country roads, a tail light with an integrated radar to warn you of vehicles approaching behind is another brilliant addition to your bike. Worth the investment!
Great point..Rechargeable lights are great too
Soreness tends to be from muscles; pain tends to be from joints. Nice breakdown, Carolin, especially the chapterization!
4:14 YES. FINALLY finally, someone else, AGAIN , said something on How to Fix a Flat! Thank you very much.
I am a life-long cyclist and these are fantastic tips for everyone. Thank you for this video.
A couple more: 1. Take a little bit of $ + travel card with you in case you run out of food or maybe need to get public transport if you have a mechanical 2. Don't let your bike sit in the garage wet after a rainy ride, wipe it down, wipe the chain and relube to prevent rust, 3. If you are out and about and need to lay your bike down, do so on the none derailleur side.
Also, it's amazing how many people you see with the seat way too low- your knees shouldn't come up round your ears! I like the seat as high as is comfortable to stretch out the legs properly
Last one, helmets need to be on properly and tight enough round your chin so it doesn't fall off your head if you crash!
Actually this is the last one- Cars might not see you- be careful and assume they can't if you are passing intersections where they pull out. At night have lights!
💯
I never thought of wiping my bike down. That's great advice.
A properly adjusted helmet should stay on your head without a strap, that is not to say you don't do the strap up, just make sure the helmet fits properly. You should be able to have the helmet on comfortably but if you bend to touch your toes then it stays on your head without straps.
Also, if you have an accident and the helmet takes an impact, buy a new one, regardless of if it looks ok, the integrity will be compromised. Finally, helmets only last so long, they should have a date stamped inside. A 10 year old helmet will give zero protection.
Wonderful video! I've been road cycling 12 years, now, and feel you have put together one of the best "wish I knew" lists I've seen. You answered questions many of us are too shy (or proud) to ask and provided valuable guidance to make cycling safe and enjoyable. Brava!
Thank you for the kind words! Glad it was helpful :)w
Great tips!! Especially learning how to fix a flat confidently! I need to practice this myself =)
Along with eating on a regular basis drinking water at the same pace or sooner is mandatory. I carry two bottles and always start out with both of them full. You have put together an excellent list, I really enjoy your channel.
One thing about bike fit you (& likely your bike fitter) missed, is crank length. Today's bikes come in a wide range of sizes, but cranks are 170-175 mm still. Shorter riders should have shorter cranks. I just moved from 170mm to 152mm (I'm 5'8") recently and my knee pain after long distance riding disappeared. I suggest this overlooked change, there's a misconception shorter cranks have less torque, while it's true when measured at the bottom bracket, but the rear wheels, through gearing is where the power is transferred, and shorter cranks have no effect on power in the rear wheels. Also I would suggest putting reflective stickers on your wheel rims to be more visible and passive reflection to other light sources (in addition to a front & rear light).
All good pointers, Carolin. When I first started cycling, I had a flat and didn't know how to fix and was an hour away from my car. Luckily, I encountered a LBS owner who changed out my flat and got me going again. When I got home, I started watching TH-cam videos on how to change a flat and now can do it with ease even though it's the last thing I want to be a pro at lol. Also, I just wanted to mention about your repair kit, make sure to carry a tire pump and not just CO pump and cartridge. I've ran into people stranded on the side of the road with CO pump and spent cartridges. All it took was a tire pump to get them going again. It doesn't have to be expensive, just one with the correct valve head.
My dad taught me how to patch a tube when I was 8. Thanks dad.
Wow! Great and insightful information. I appreciate the way you lay out your thoughts logically so any newbie can follow. Thank you!
Great advice and from a perspective not many consider.
I'm forwarding this to new cyclists I meet. This is a great list, very thoughtfully explained!
Great list, I especially like 10. Group rides are a good way for beginners to get information, clothing, tools, routes, and with busy lives making a date can get you out there. Solo rides take more motivation ( at least for me ).
Agree wholeheartedly with a bike fit. A game changer for me, changed my handlebar, stem, seat and insoles in my shoes
Excellent presentation Carolin. Agree that people should make good use of their local community bike repairers.
I couldn’t go about my routine. I was mesmerised. Well done ! :)
Well done. You certainly hit a half dozen points that I learned the hard way. Your video should help new cyclists avoid some pitfalls. Good public service. Thank you.
Also learned many of these the hard way.
You nailed it!! Great tips!!! Also always inspect your bike before and after a ride. Use bike lights too.
I'm a longtime cyclist, a retired chiropractor and a health coach. You've done a GREAT job on this intro.
Re the eating - not necessary to eat continuously if you’re fat adapted . I routinely do 20-30 mile bike rides early in the day before eating.
I’m 71 years old.
Keto for the win.
Really great list! I knew about recovering from muscle soreness but had to learn tendon recovery the hard way.
Last autumn I bought a hardtail MTB (not new to cycling) and rode it through the winter. I pushed through so much snow on the lowest gear... often in -15°c.
My left biceps femoris tendon started to ache on every ride. Though that has mostly recovered, the right side is lightly snapping. Will have it checked soon but for now it isn't happening while riding. Give tendons 3 days of recovery after intense efforts.
Agree with all. Well said. I do wear a seamless undershort. This allows the layers a bit of slide without binding.
Well done on the list! I started competitive cycling when I was about 14 many moons ago ( LONG before the Internet) and just ate up everything I could on how to be better. Your list is pretty much the basics I learned back then. Not much has really changed. But let me make a few comments:
1) Fit. Yes. Bike fit may be the most important item when starting cycling. It leads to a more comfortable ride on top of preventing injury and lessening fatigue. And when you get advanced and know more how your body works, you can tinker with crank arm length and seat positioning.
2) Group rides are super great. Not only is a great social thing to do and learn what others do, but teaches you so many bike handling techniques. Like being comfortable riding within inches side by side with another rider. Or teaching you what lines to take in corners. So many great things. The biggest difference between lower and upper ranked racers IS NOT fitness. It's bike handling technique. Seriously.
Well done on your cycling journey. I hope to get back into cycling and revisit the joy of riding and taking little adventures.
great list. bike fit is definitely crucial
I think hearing protection is important too. I recently bought cat ears and they do really block at least 50% of wind noise but you have to have a helmet with more vertical straps to get it working well.
Do those things really work? I’ve seen the ads and thought I could use them.
Tires. Need to experiment and try a bunch before you settle on a pair that suits you. Then get extras.
Same for tubes. Never hurts to have more than you need at a moment’s notice.
Also keep extra valve adapters handy. I have one on keychain.
Also be careful putting tube back in wheel. It’s easy to be rough and fold the tube while putting it back in and then pinch flat. Never hurts to have extra levers.
Whoa! The more I watch the better the list! I will def. use some of your advice. Thank you for sharing your experiences.
I've had so many bike issues over my life. Buy one, don't like, trade in for something new... and don't like the new bike. I just want to ride. I'm literally trying to use the bike I have (that I don't like) and fix it up. Ugh. I popped a tire. I just want to ride. But my set-up is so old that I'm replacing the tires, inner tubes and will try and try again just so I can go on a short romp through the neighborhood and look at the trees and flowers for ideas for my yard. I like your advice. Thanks for producing and sharing good advice and honesty.
Great video. I've just taken up cycling again after some years away and these tips will really help. Thank you and happy cycling 🤗
Wow some really good advice and things I never thought off. I only have mountain bike but thought about getting into road bike riding.
Very well done video! Clearly articulated and you hit all the salient points a beginner needs. Kudos!
11. use shorter cranks.
This is actually a biggie in bike fit. Most stock bikes are offered with a standard crank length by frame size, and usually too long (tradition)
There are two key things to consider:
a) power = torque x angular velocity (how fast you can move the pedal over a angle or a full pedal cycle). the torque is the force on the pedal multiplied by the length of the lever arm, in this case the length of the crank. angular velocity is the speed by which the pedal travels along the pedaling circle to complete the angle. for example, if you look at the pedal in the top position, 12 o'clock and at the 9 o'clock position, the pedal has to move 90 degrees, on a large crank length, the feet have to travel a longer distance to complete that angle. on shorter cranks, less. on a long crank length, the torque will be higher, but your feet have to travel faster along the pedaling circle. in short, they cancel eachother out. if torque goes up, angular velocity goes down and vice versa,. because the human body chooses a natural feeling pedal speed.
b) hip angle: the length of the cranks determines how high your knee has to move up to complete the pedal circle. and this is quite a big difference. if you compare 165mm cranks with 172.5 cranks, at the top of the pedal position your knee has to be twice the difference in crank length higher, in this example 1.5cm. By choosing shorter cranks you can gain comfort or get the same comfort as longer cranks, but sit deeper and more aero.
I am 5'10 and I have been using 165mm cranks for years. Best decision I ever made :) Same power, more comfort.
actually, you will sit higher in a bike with a shorter crank, because you'd need to set the saddle higher to the lower pedal position, and that will be raised with a shorter crank
@@pxldgn7129 Obviously, but the saddle height goes up by the difference in crank length while the diameter of the pedal circle goes down by twice the difference.
Check the weather before your ride so you can layer accordingly. I also recommend reviewing your route ahead of time so you can plan for the hills. Oh, also get a tire bead jack. It will save you a lot of time when installing a tire.
Just today i was talking to an avid cyclist i work woth that i was going to look into getting a bike and your video popped later in the day. Thanks for the good advice
Glad I could help!
Thanks for the great video! Would you recommend any online resources and/or tips on how to learn to fix a flat? I feel my local bike shop will not be necessarily interested in spending time with me on this.
Thanks so much for this video, just bought my first proper bike and surely I am adding some of the advice to my to-do list!
I would pick a more practical bike. Because why not? There's plenty bikes with roadbike/ gravel geometry but that come with a rack and fenders, sometimes luggage space on the fork too. Using the heavier sturdier bike and the puncture safe tyres and bringing lots of water and so on slows you down but wont make you any less fit.
Super cool and honest. Love it. Thanks for sharing.
I’m 54 and would like to get into gravel/ mountain biking. However, I’m unsure of what type to get. I can see myself biking on smooth, gravel and rutted single track trails. Was looking at either salsa rangefinder deore 12 or Canyon grizl7 with suspension… any recommendations??
Very useful tips either as a reminder, validation or just additional technical information all bikers need to do every ride.. tfs!
Hey, thanks for that refreshing advise. Many of us bypass those simple but important things. I think that I will go that way. Thanks again happy cycling.❤
Perfect tips! One tip if I may, get yourself a nice pair of rear lights. Those ones aren't safe enough!
You are so great! Your voice is so needed. Thank you.
Great top ten of things to learn and do as a cyclist. Especially # 5! Show respect for your group and know how to fix a flat quickly.
Super useful material !!! Best from Poland !!!
You are right about a flat, it's a skill that needs practice. Good technique is a real help.
These are all great tips for beginner distance runners as well 👍
My best advice is listen to Carolin! I've always said the the two most important things are what holds you and your bike to the road; that's your saddle fitting your sit bones and your chamois pad fitting your bits! Rubber side down-
Fantastic advice, Carolin! great job! be safe and I hope to see you around the roads near SF!
Great information! Can you please tell me the make and model of the bike in the background? Thank you!
Nice video and useful tips...I'd like to ask you when it is recommended to do stretching? when you finish your ride, before it or just simply every single day to keep fit and feel less soreness???
Nice video! I just rode 100km and I agree with what you said about eating lol
Thanks the info on the video is so good for beginners been riding since the end of pandemic but started on bmx when i was in grade school
This was a great and informative video thank you 😊
Carolin -- I have been road bike riding for 40 years, you have made a good list that will help beginners,
I tried many bikes, mountain and city bikes
The best bike for me as a commuter is: small folding bike
Small correction..Spare "tube" , not "tire" ...all great tipe though! I recently got a bike fit after complaining about the cost but ill never regret it, helped with back pain (from being hunched over) and knee pain too.
Didnt have the technology back when I purchesed my Specilized road bike. Neck pain 22 years later
I suggest a bright headlight for daytime riding in traffic.
My biggest failure when buying a bike was the right size of road bike. Even the well-known specialist dealer in my region measured me and then sold me a road bike two sizes too big 54 instead of 49. I'm not very tall and couldn't do anything with the first bike. I only realised this during the bike fitting. I would advise everyone to get properly measured beforehand.
Amazing tips thank you🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉❤❤❤❤❤
Thanks you described me perfectly I did all of those
Along with frequently eating I would suggest taking more water than you think you will need for the ride. Also be sure to keep a constant intake of electrolytes because your body loses them through sweat 😅. At the end of the day just remember to have fun. Happy trails 👣!
One of the biggest mistakes new cyclist make is they feel they have to ride on the sidewalk (children are an exception). I cannot tell you how many close calls I have seen with new riders almost getting hit by vehicles because the driver's attention is looking for other motorist on the street, NOT looking for bicycles on the walk ways.
When buying a bike, know what your intentions are for it and what you are riding on. A MTB is good for dirt and rugged terrain but is not so great for roads while a road bike is great for roads but I would definitely not use it for gravel and rugged terrain. Also, I wouldn't buy an Enduro for grocery runs when there's cargo bikes or Dutch style but I'm not going to use a cargo bike in a race.
I'm the guy who asks, "Are you okay? Do you need anything?" when I see cyclists on the side of the road. I have stopped and helped folks on my rides. I've repaired flats, minor mechanical issues, given snacks and water to others. Don't be afraid of accepting assistance from some stranger if you are out on a ride and have a problem. Likewise, if you are capable of helping and see someone on the side of the road, unless you are in a big hurry to go somewhere, please offer to help.
Thank you very helpful! I kept admiring your bike in the background. Tell us about your bike.
:) th-cam.com/video/2YlIgGqwIt4/w-d-xo.html
All very valuable….How can you tell if the bike fitter has done a good job? Also please make a video on bicycles recommendations for beginners
Good job Carolin!!!!!! Loved watching this, the list is great, and your editing is really good too!
Glad you liked it!!
I've been riding as adult for about 10 years now and have yet to get a bike fit, for me I don't think I need it, but I would recommend. I would imagine a new rider could learn a lot.
more props to ya! it takes a lot of experimenting and research to get dialed in. Agreed, a new rider would learn a ton. I was a sponge asking all the questions to the bike fitter :D
I suspect you got lucky. I purchased a new bike for bikepacking. Felt OK for say 30 miles but when starting to think about 50-60 miles potentially with another 20-30 lbs on that steel frame I started to get a bit worried. Ended up with a shorter stem, spacers to bring up the bars, changing the angle of the hoods, spacers on my pedals, some adjustment to my SPD cleats to true up my stroke and a longer seat post and a new seat. Still not ideal but at 65 I don’t have the time to experiment (though am going for a smaller chainring after climbing with half my load). Pain probably stops more people from regularly cycling than anything else.
Having a second opinion on bike fit makes a big difference because the other person is looking while you are riding. I remember many years ago riding between Buffalo and Toronto and meeting up with the "old Italian racer" along the ride. At the end of the ride, he suggest I drop my seat a little. After I dropped my seat a 1/2 inch, my peddling cadence picked up and my sore leg muscle became less of problem (i.e. I started riding 200 mile days with no more effort then most people expand on 30-50 miles)
your bike, or that bike in the background, looks nice do you have many reviews on your equipment? this was an interesting video, normally when i go on long mountain bike trips i just take a bike bottle of Ribena, and some granola bars. not done any road biking but interested after seeing all these educational and interesting cycling channels now on utube. its all about getting the time to put in the training, i focus on swimming and rock climbing, plus yoga, not enough biking in the last few years. your channel is a boost of inspiration. thank you for your time to make such informative and interesting videos. if you can make a video purely about diet, nutrition that would be interesting. thank you.
Well said, thank you!
Excellent information, especially about the undies part, thank you. I’m in the Bay also, maybe I’ll see you on the GG sometime, lol! Namaste!
Fantastic tips for a new rider such as myself. Thank you!
Fantastic advice, you are awesome .........
Disinfectant your cycle shorts weekly especially the insert this will keep down urinary tract infections as bad bacteria can cause infection.
Have two bikes. One will be down with slow flat and it will prevent you from messing up your routine. Ride the same path if you can on normal routine rides. Different route on casual less intense workout long distance rides. Always wear helmet. If I didn't I would have been dead at least half dozen times in the past 30 years or so. I only ride with Brooks leather saddles now. I've had them all. Air, Gel, you name it. They all will fail in no time. Most comfortable Brooks saddle; the B17 and Swift. I have both. Once they are broken in, you will never go back to conventional saddle. Group rides are nice but it will not give you a good workout. Have fun! BTW, I've been a road cyclist for over 45 years. I now only have Litespeed Ultimate and Bike Friday's Pocket Rocket single speed.
Thank you Carolin
Have 100g of sugar per hour if you want to feel strong in mind and body. Drink water before thirst.
I’ve just started cycling so this is really useful for me
I’ve also joined a local bike club ( Seacroft wheelers in Leeds U.K) who are so friendly and helpful
Just had minor hand surgery ( trigger finger release) so unfortunately no cycling this week
How tall are you/ what bike do you have ?
Great insights for new cycling enthusiasts. I've been aware of all of these things, but a bike fit and bibs are something that I have still avoided.
100 % great advice listen and learn thank you.
Great list, I would add...
1. Get bike bright lights; front and back
2. Wear at least one bright clothing on you.
3. Ride as if you are going to get run over by drivers. You see them but they dont, remember that.
4. In time, you are going to see and hear horrible bike crashes and even death. At some point in your life, you will stop riding or you will keep going until you die.
5. There are two types of riders; one who fell and one who is going to fall.
Bonus
1. Dont apply bengay cream on your lower back before your long ride. Its going to sting. 😂
2. Try triathlon bike short with minimum padding. Get bike seat/saddle cushion.
Boy oh boy .....number 5 really resonated with me.
bonus: wear a helmet
Great list, easy to listen to. Just had my first bike fit!
nice!
what handlebar do you have on your bicycle and what is the drop? thanks in advance. :-)
What bike would you recommend for general use?
Thx for the info! Nice bike!
I'd modify #1: "Get a bike fit BEFORE buying a bike. The fitter can recommend a model that will suit your individual proportions of legs, torso, arms, flexibility, etc. If your heart is set on a particular model, at least the fitter can help you get the right SIZE of that model."
and tip #11: "Especially when descending or cornering, look where you want to go and your bike will magically go exactly there. If you look at a hazard like a rock or a tree, you will tend to hit them."
tip #12: "Never go at 100% when descending/cornering. Always leave a little head room, limit yourself to say 90% or 95%, and you will relax and do it more smoothly."
Join a friendly club, forget your ego, ask questions, ride your bike as much as possible :)
What if there are no friendly clubs or any clubs at all
@@methylmercury thats a shame :( hope the cycling is fun nonetheless.
I don’t enjoy people
great list
WISDOM!
Fantastic tips. Thank you for this!
verey good topic that helped me a bit . Thanks 😊🚲
amazing work! thanks!
Congratulations! Excellent video.